ProSiebenSat.1, Discovery hire Vassilev to lead 7TV
February 2, 2018
ProSiebenSat.1 and Discovery Communications have announced the appointment of Alexandar Vassilev as the CEO of 7TV, its joint premium direct-to-consumer entertainment streaming service in Germany.
Vassilev joins from Google and starts with immediate effect. He is responsible for the strategic growth and development of this ambitious new consumer digital service in the German market which launched six months ago. He reports to the Board of the joint venture. Christian Dankl, Interim-CEO of 7TV and CEO AdVoD at ProSiebenSat.1, is also appointed as a Board Member of the joint venture.
7TV is a major new content offering in the German market, defining a new way for media companies and advertisers to reach fans across all screens. Brands available on the 7TV app and digital platforms are; ProSieben, SAT.1, kabel eins, DMAX, sixx, ProSieben MAXX, SAT.1 Gold, kabel eins Doku and TLC. 7TV also includes a Eurosport Zone featuring sports highlights and clips.
Michael Lang, President, DNI Digital & Eurosport Digital & CEO of MotorTrend, said: “Our ambition to build a world class platform is underscored with the hiring of Alexandar Vassilev and his digital pedigree in building world-class products, which will drive an aggressive consumer-first blueprint for our OTT business. When we launched a global search to fill the CEO role, we knew as soon as we met Alex that he had the skill-set and entrepreneurial spirit to maximise the JV’s potential. His decision to join and leave Google, also shows how much he believes in the potential.”
Wahl added: “This is a great appointment for 7TV. Alexandar Vassilev has spent his whole career working at the heart of the digital revolution. His knowledge of building strong consumer centric digital products will help us grow 7TV and position it strongly for the future.”
Vassilev, said: “I’m excited to lead the growth and evolution of our mobile and OTT video streaming service in Germany. By bringing together two major media brands, strong content and all the potential of this new service, my ambition is to build an unrivalled direct-to-consumer brand.”